"Gov. Boy Umali explained that he called up PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima as a favor to Atty. Gilbert Repizo, who is a provincemate whom he personally knows," Coloma said.

"Atty. Repizo wanted to know the basis for Mr. Lee's arrest because as far as his camp knows, the Court of Appeals already issued a decision favoring his client. When Gov. Umali asked this, Gen. Purisima said the arrest warrant against Mr. Lee is still valid. That is where they ended their conversation."

"According to Gov. Umali, he already explained this to President Aquino after he was asked through a text message," Coloma added.

Umali is an ally and a member of the ruling Liberal Party.

Asked if the President was satisfied with Umali's explanation, Coloma begged off from making a categorical answer.

"I cannot go beyond what I have stated because that is all I know at present," the Palace official added.